(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-09-28 09:37

GUIYANG--Three managers of a Southwest China mine where 16 workers died in a gas blast early this year have been referred for prosecution, said a spokesman of the provincial work safety administration on Thursday.

Li Moyou, manager of the Yile Coal Mine in Guizhou Province, Tang Bo, the main shareholder of the mine, and Li Mogui, vice-manager, would face charges.

Liu Tao, former head of the town's coal mine management station, was also referred for prosecution.

The blast happened on January 28 at the mine in Shuitang Town, Panxian County. Twenty-five miners were working underground when it occurred, but only nine managed to escape.

The spokesman said the blast was caused by lax management, improper operation and poor surveillance.

Liu Tao has been sacked for negligence. Xu Cong, director of the county's coal management bureau, received an official sanction and Yi Zhengheng, vice head of the county, was given an official warning.

The provincial authorities are to revoke the mine's license and shut down the mine.

The mine was fully licensed and had an annual output capacity of 60,000 tons.